Community Enhancement

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Revitalize the Watson Cabin

Partner Agency:

Amount Funded:

Phase I - $43,010 & Phase II - $265,606

Funding Committee(s):

Zone 1 Committee


Phase II

  • Restore the exterior of the oldest log structure in Tahoe City, a California State Registered Historic building, built in 1908. Restoration includes replacing and restoring original logs and original chimney structure (plus any additional structural needs that are deemed necessary for restoration). 
  • Give the restored Watson Cabin an updated useful life cycle for the community and visitors to enjoy for years to come. 
  • Create a safe accessible space for community and visitors to access.
  • The Watson Cabin hosts community events, exhibits and a small gift shop. 

Phase I

  • Restores the oldest cabin in Tahoe City, a California-registered historic site
  • Preserves local history
  • Showcases North Tahoe’s heritage
  • Enhances community and visitor experience in the North Tahoe region
  • Creates a communal and cultural space for all to enjoy

RECENT UPDATES:

Construction work on the cabin was completed in June 2024. A structural assessment performed in August 2024 to understand the exterior restoration needs and begin fundraising for phase two of the project.

Previous Updates:

Efforts to revitalize and restore Watson Cabin include refinishing logs and the original floors, repairing structural elements and broken windows, restoring the original bathroom, and offering a small-scale museum gift shop and Tahoe history exhibits.

Summer Hours: Watson Cabin is open Tuesday to Sunday from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. through September.

The TOT-TBID Dollars At Work program is powered by the North Tahoe business community. Thank you to the business owners who created the Tourism Business Improvement District. In partnership with Placer County.